‘Travel Report’ to Look at The Great Outdoors

Public television’s “The Travel Report” is producing a new series on “The Great Outdoors” hosted by Hugh Downs.
“People will always want to travel and get away from it all when there is stress in their lives,” according to a press release.
Upon speaking with different industry experts, it appears that consumers are also traveling closer to home this year, so adventures in their own backyard will be more prevalent, the release noted.
Initial data from the 2009 Outdoor Recreation Participation Topline Report, published by The Outdoor Foundation, a non-profit organization, shows that an increasing number of Americans returned to nature and active outdoor activities last year. The study finds sizeable participation increases in nearly every nature-based activity including double-digit increases in backpacking, mountain biking and trail running and close to a 10% increase in hiking and camping. Overall participation trends in recreation, sports and fitness remained largely unchanged from last year.
“Americans, once again, are finding solace and security, adventure and excitement in the great outdoors,” said Christine Fanning, executive director of The Outdoor Foundation. “During these challenging economic times, a return to affordable, nature-based recreation allows individuals, friends and families to reconnect — with one another, with the natural world and with natural values.”
“The Travel Report” will be highlighting companies and organizations that are bringing to light new ideas and outdoor excursions to the public. From rock climbing, to whitewater rafting, to hiking and biking vacations, the “Travel Report” will be covering all areas of the great outdoors for their Public TV series.
“Travel Report TV” is part of a privately owned and operated television production company that is on the leading edge of the documentary television industry. The series is distributed to Public TV.